The Cubs made a splash with the Alex Bregman signing, and naturally, that move sparked immediate questions about the future of Nico Hoerner. Would Bregman’s arrival-and the resulting shift of Matt Shaw into a utility role-make Hoerner expendable, especially with free agency looming after this season?

Not likely.

Despite some early trade buzz, it’s clear the Cubs weren’t seriously entertaining the idea of moving Hoerner unless a rival team came to the table with a blockbuster offer-think top-tier prospects like Connelly Early or Bryce Eldridge. And that kind of return was always a long shot for a player entering his walk year.

The reality is simple: Hoerner is a better player than Shaw right now, and the Cubs are firmly in the mix to win the NL Central. Trading away a core piece like Hoerner would’ve made little sense unless the return was overwhelming.

Meanwhile, several teams that could’ve been fits for Hoerner have already moved on. The Red Sox swung a deal for Caleb Durbin.

The Giants filled their second base need by signing Luis Arraez. And Seattle addressed the position by acquiring Brendan Donovan from St.

Louis. That’s three potential suitors off the board before Spring Training even gets rolling.

So, where does that leave the Cubs and Hoerner? All signs point toward extension talks heating up over the next few weeks.

March has historically been a prime window for these types of negotiations, and there’s a strong foundation in place. According to Sahadev Sharma, Hoerner has become a respected voice in the clubhouse-a pillar of the team, both on and off the field.

The relationship between player and front office is solid, and there’s mutual interest in keeping him in Chicago long-term.

If the Cubs can lock Hoerner up before Opening Day, it could also give them more flexibility at the trade deadline. A long-term commitment would make it easier to consider moving Shaw in a deal for a frontline starter, should one become available midseason.

At this point, the focus has shifted from “Will they trade Hoerner?” to “What will it cost to keep him?” And with the Cubs eyeing a serious run in the Central, keeping their infield anchor right where he is might be the most valuable move of all.